Numerous reports had said that the the Bills were prepared to make a serious run at signing Harris to a contract now that they’ve hired Rex Ryan and traded Kiko Alonso.

However, losing out on Harris could amplify their efforts to get a long-term contract in place with Hughes over the next few days.

Bills GM Doug Whaley said previously that they had been working hard to hammer out a deal.

“We’ve sent a proposal over to his representatives. His representatives have sent a counterproposal. I just got off the phone with Jim Overdorf, who talked with their representatives at length last night,” said Whaley, via BuffaloBills.com. “There’s an open line of communication. I haven’t met with J.O. yet to see how close we are or if we’re close at all. I’ll meet with him soon.”

Hughes, 26, will be an unrestricted free agent in March, and would be one of the more sought after players in this year’s free agent class.

In 2014, Hughes recorded 53 tackles, 9.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, one recovery and even scored a defensive touchdown for the Bills defense. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 14 defensive end in a 4-3 system out of 59 qualifying players.